Lance being there (I'm not his biggest fan - but gee I respect his
awesome ability...), and being pushed hard through the whole race by
some of the others (wet dream would be Cadel Evans..... but let's be
realistic....)

That way, we get to see Lance having to go hard through ALL the
mountain stages (instead of just blowing the field apart in 1 or 2, and
going with the field for the other 20 stages)... Might give us more
insight into the neverending Armstrong vs Merckxx debate as well!!

If Lance won both yellow & polka dot, I think he would have a strong
claim to all-time greatest status.....

Cheers,
Absent Husband (who does NOT want to start a Lance vs Eddie debate, but
had to throw his 2 cents in....)

Gistane Wrote:
It would probably be more interesting if he isnt there with some new u
and comings being more competitive so would bring more excitement.

I agree, the Tour cept for 2003 has been rather boring. Needs to mov
on from the Lance domination and be exciting. No one ever even attack
him. The two guys (Vino and Mayo) that did in 2003 were basicall
injured for the 2004 race. I just hope the competition turns u
prepared to race this year.

The Giro looks to be the real interesting GT of this year, with Bass
and Cunego going at it

Lance being there (I'm not his biggest fan - but gee I respect his
awesome ability...), and being pushed hard through the whole race by
some of the others (wet dream would be Cadel Evans..... but let's be
realistic....)

That way, we get to see Lance having to go hard through ALL the
mountain stages (instead of just blowing the field apart in 1 or 2
and
going with the field for the other 20 stages)... Might give us more
insight into the neverending Armstrong vs Merckxx debate as well!!

If Lance won both yellow & polka dot, I think he would have a strong
claim to all-time greatest status.....

Cheers,
Absent Husband (who does NOT want to start a Lance vs Eddie debate
but
had to throw his 2 cents in....)

I think there is only 3 real mountain stages this year. With that i
mind its possible Evans (and any other pretenders please turn up i
peak condition) could at least stick with the front groups, thoug
there is nothing much in the way of helpers for him. Mario Aerts o
even Merkx maybe. I dont see much changing though, Discovery´s tea
will be even stronger this year with Savoldelli and Popyvich added.

I dont think winning the polka dot means that much, I think (haven
look up the stats) but Armstrong could of won the jersey before i
Virenque did not do his insane all day breakaways. (not meaning t
turn this into a debate